All Black coach admits selection process is a challenge

The All Black coach Graham Henry has given the impression that they're some way from finalising their squad for next month's Tests against Ireland and Wales.

With the injury toll hitting 10, the selectors have had to spread their net for possible selections, with the most concern appearing to be a replacement for second five Ma'a Nonu.

Henry admits they thought they'd finalised it but recent injuries have thrown a spanner in the works, so it's been a challenging process.

Henry says he'll meet with the selectors, management and some of the players during the week, before a final decision is made.

The coach says number eight Rodney So'oialo will still be considered for the June Tests, despite giving him permission to go off and play for the UK Barbarians over the next two weeks.

But it looks likely that the 62-Test veteran won't be in the mix, with the squad to be named on Sunday.

Meanwhile on the All Black injury front, centre Richard Kahui and front rower Aled de Malmanche will visit the All Black doctors tomorrow for an update on whether they'll be available for selection when the squad is named on Sunday.